One of the most rewarding parts of leadership is seeing great people grow.
Over the past few years, I’ve had the privilege of watching Kylie Roberts make a significant impact within Strive. Whether it’s supporting a worker through a complex rehabilitation journey, mentoring colleagues, building relationships with customers, or representing our industry on a national stage, Kylie consistently brings a level of professionalism, authenticity and care that leaves a lasting impression.
That’s why I’m genuinely excited to announce Kylie’s appointment to the newly created role of Area Manager – Toowoomba and Sunshine Coast.
For those who know Kylie, this appointment will come as no surprise.
With more than 20 years of experience as an Accredited Rehabilitation Counsellor, Kylie has built an outstanding reputation across workplace rehabilitation, psychosocial risk management, mental health, early intervention and complex case management. More importantly, she has a remarkable ability to connect with people, understand what matters, and bring out the best in those around her.
Many across the industry also had the opportunity to hear Kylie present at this year’s ASORC National Conference in Sydney, where she shared her insights on identity, purpose and impact in rehabilitation. It was another example of what we see every day at Strive: a leader who combines deep expertise with genuine curiosity, humility and a passion for helping others succeed.
This new role is about more than a title change.
It reflects our belief that regional Queensland deserves local leadership, local relationships and local investment.
The Toowoomba and Darling Downs region has been part of Strive’s journey for more than 20 years. We opened our permanent Toowoomba office in 2019 and have continued to build a team of local professionals who live and work within the community. As we’ve written previously, strong local knowledge leads to better outcomes because we understand the industries, challenges and opportunities that make regional Queensland unique.
The same philosophy underpins our Sunshine Coast team. Following the opening of our Sunshine Coast office in late 2025, we’ve continued to grow a talented local team that understands the people, employers and communities driving this rapidly evolving region.
As Area Manager, Kylie will provide leadership across both locations, supporting our teams, strengthening customer relationships and helping identify new opportunities to bring Strive’s services to more people and organisations throughout the regions we serve.
For me, this appointment is also a reflection of the confidence we have in our future.
Strive has always been built on great people doing meaningful work in their local communities. Kylie embodies that philosophy. She is an exceptional consultant, a respected leader and someone who genuinely cares about making a difference.
I’m excited to see what she achieves in this next chapter, and even more excited about what it means for our people, our customers and the communities we serve.
Please join me in congratulating Kylie on this well-deserved appointment.
Chris Merrilees
General Manager
Strive Occupational Rehabilitation
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